Dog Rose - Useful Herb for Many Health Problems

Rosa canina Rosaceae Also called Common briar.

A bushy shrub, the dog rose grows wild in most temperate regions of the world.. It rail reach a height of /-3m, alldfrom May to early July be'lrs pretty bright pink or whitish Flowers on its thorny brallches. Once the petals have fallen, the flower's receptacle starts to ripen, becoming red and pulpy; this is the rosehip. Seedpods arc found in its pulp.

Parts used

Constituents

Rosehips are rich in vitamins C and B2 and contain substantial amounts of pectins, some organic acids particularly malic and citric - and tannins. It also contains proanthocyanidines, which have a protective antioxidant effect.

Medicinal uses

Because rosehips have such a high vitamin C content, preparations with a base of rosehip have a tonic effect and can help to boost the immune system. They are given as a general pick-me-up during illnesses and convalescence, and to help to increase resistance to infections such as colds and influenza.

In addition, the tannins confer astringent powers that ease diarrhoea, particularly if caused by fever; the pectins and organic acids have a diuretic effect, and the organic acids help to stimulate the gastric juices, relieving gastritis.
Recent research also suggests that rosehip might help to ease the pain and improve the mobility of joints affected by arthritis.

CAUTIONS

Preparations made with a base of dog rose are not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

PREPARATION AND DOSAGE

TO TREAT chills. influenza. vitamin C deficiency, general fatigue
INFUSION Put 2-2.5g of fragmented rosehips into a cup of boiling water. Leave to infuse for 10 minutes and then filter. Drink 3-4 cups a day.

CAPSULES (with a dose of SO-200mg of dry extract) Take 1-2 capsules with a large glass of water three times a day before meals.

TINCTURE Put 30. drops into a glass of water. Take three times a day before meals.
TO TREAT diarrhea.

DECOCTION Put 30-50g of fragmented rosehips into 1 litre of boiling water. Boil gently for 5 minutes. Leave to infuse for 15 minutes and filter. Take regularly, particularly at breakfast.

IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST CONSULT A DOCTOR

Cultivation

Dog rose can be grown from a cutting in moist, well-drained ground that is rich in nutrients.

It is best suited to a neutral to mildly acidic soil and should be placed in a sunny spot.